John Pickles, who created the Jive Bunny music mixes, has died aged 84, the Mastermix company he founded has confirmed.
Pickles formed the novelty pop act Jive Bunny And The Mastermixers in Rotherham in 1989. The group went on to have three UK number ones with Swing The Mood, That’s What I Like and Let’s Party.
‘A true pioneer in the music industry’
A statement from Mastermix described him as “a true pioneer in the music industry”. It read: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Pickles, founder and creator of The Music Factory Entertainment Group, Mastermix and Jive Bunny. John was a leader, an entrepreneur, a businessman, and an incredibly talented songwriter.
“He was a true pioneer in the music industry, whose creativity, vision and passion for music touched the lives and careers of so many people around the world, and for the most fortunate of us, he was dad.”
Jive Bunny’s chart success
Jive Bunny And The Mastermixers were made up of Pickles, his son Andrew, who also worked as a director for his company Mastermix, along with Doncaster DJ and producer Les Hemstock.
Their records typically used synthesisers and sampling to combine contemporary pop music with music from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. The group also had a UK top 10 album in Jive Bunny The Album and scored five UK top 10 hits including their number ones.
Their album covers and music videos featured a cartoon rabbit, with costumed actors also making promotional appearances as the character.
Tributes from friends and fans
In December 2024, Mastermix released a new Jive Bunny production called 3, 6, 9, which it said was “celebrating the origins of Jive Bunny while adding a modern twist”.
Following the news, family friend Rupert Lawes said: “Very sad to hear of the passing of John Pickles, founder of Music Factory and a true legend of the industry. I had the pleasure of meeting John a few times when I was working for Music Factory back in the early 90s, and he was always such a lovely, genuine guy. He made a huge contribution to the music and DJ industry and will be very sadly missed. Rest in peace, John.”
Other friends and fans also paid tribute, with one writing on Facebook: “Sending condolences to the family R I P John one of the good guys.” Another said: “So sad news. Rip john. One of the best men i have had the pleasure to know and work with. My wishes go to all the family.” A commenter added: “Sorry to hear about your loss. I did have the joys of working with you guys some years ago through work you did with schools (and back from the 80s playing your work as a DJ). I noticed the old place the other day as i was passing and actually wondered how everyone was getting on. Keep the music and work going!”
